Russell Martin withdraws from Team Canada four days before the start of the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Signed by the Pirates as a free agent over the off-season, the veteran catcher had wanted to play shortstop in the tournament, but both the Bucs and the national team brass were cool to the suggestion. He is replaced on the roster by John Suomi, a veteran backstop with 12 minor league seasons of experience.

On February 26, 2013 — Russell Martin withdraws from Team Canada four days before the start of the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Signed by the Pirates as a free agent over the off-season, the veteran catcher had wanted to play shortstop in the tournament, but both the Bucs and the national team brass were cool to the suggestion. He is replaced on the roster by John Suomi, a veteran backstop with 12 minor league seasons of experience.

Source:
Baseball Reference February 26
SABR Games Project
National Pastime February 26
Hall of Fame
Replay The Game
Retro Sheet

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